Halloween is coming, and you’re eager to get your decorations out. In particular, you want to start carving pumpkins. But how long will they last? Fall brings a number of air quality concerns that can wreak havoc with your pumpkin carving and your daily life. Here are a few to be aware of:

Temperature Changes

The ideal temperature for pumpkins is between 50 and 55 degrees. That’s a little cold for your house, but they’ll generally last at least a week in mid-70s temperatures. Unfortunately, the weather in Georgia can be unpredictable in autumn. One day it’s sweltering, the next it’s freezing. Keeping up can overwork your HVAC system and waste energy. However, a smart thermostat with Wi-Fi capabilities can help you plan for these fluctuations and even check the day’s forecast, in order to keep your house comfortable and your pumpkins fresh, in any weather.

Humidity

Humidity is another significant issue in Georgia, which can cause your pumpkins to rot sooner. High humidity also fosters mold, bacteria, and a host of other contaminants that can exacerbate allergies and asthma. Your HVAC system dehumidifies the air somewhat, but it’s not always enough. It might help to get a whole house humidifier/dehumidifier. This allows you to regulate the humidity in your home, the way the thermostat lets you adjust the temperature. You can then keep your home at an ideal 40-50% humidity, which is good for both your pumpkins and your respiratory system.

Air Circulation

When temperatures start to drop, you often shut your home up tight, to keep the warm furnace air from escaping. This creates an envelope, wherein the same air cycles through your home again and again, as you breathe in the same contaminants that cycle with it. Remember to replace your air filter regularly, and talk to your HVAC technician about improving your home’s air circulation.

To learn about other air quality concerns in your home, contact us at Powers Heating & Air. We proudly serve Peachtree City’s HVAC needs.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Peachtree City, Georgia and surrounding areas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Guide or call us at 770-487-2040. 

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